Dual MSW/MPH Program

****We are not accepting MSW/MPH applications for this program for Fall 2025***

Program Highlights & Accreditation

San Diego State University (SDSU) offers a three-year, 93-unit concurrent graduate program leading to a Master of Public Health (MPH) in Health Management and Policy (HMP) and a Master of Social Work (MSW) with a Concentration in Administration and Community Development. The primary objective of this dual degree program is to provide comprehensive preparation in both public health and social work, equipping graduates with the necessary knowledge and skills to promote health, prevent disease, and enhance the delivery of social and health services within the community.

The MPH program's Health Management and Policy (HMP) Division is a member of the Association of University Programs in Health Administration (AUPHA) and is affiliated with the Health Education Network of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), with an active student chapter of ACHE through the San Diego Organization of Healthcare Leaders (SOHL). The School of Social Work is accredited by the Council for Social Work Education (CSWE). The MSW Administration and Community Development Concentration prepares students for specialized “macro” practice in areas such as strategic management, program design, financial management, community development, and grant writing.

Delivery Modes

This is a concurrent graduate program typically completed in three years by full-time students.

Curriculum Overview

The MSW/MPH dual degree program requires 93 units. Students in this program do not have electives. The curriculum includes:

• Public Health Core Classes (12 units):

  • PH 601 Epidemiology (3)

  • PH 602 Biostatistics (3)

  • PH 603 Behavioral and Social Science in Public Health (3)

  • PH 604 Environmental Determinants of Human Health (3)

• Health Management and Policy Concentration Courses (33 units)

• Social Work Courses (30 units)

• Field Practicum (15 units)

• Integrative Learning Experience (3 units): All dual students are required to complete a thesis (SW or PH 799A).

Students are expected to complete the degree within seven years. Failure to complete degree requirements within this timeframe will result in dismissal from the program.

Admissions Requirements

Applicants for the MSW/MPH program must submit an application via SOPHAS. Applications are reviewed by both the SDSU School of Public Health and the SDSU School of Social Work. Applicants must meet the same requirements as those for the standard MPH and MSW programs. In the statement of purpose submitted with the SOPHAS application, MSW/MPH applicants must address their interest in both Public Health and Social Work, as well as their specific interest in Health Management and Policy. The program accepts applications for Fall admission only.

For detailed admission requirements, see the Admission Requirements for All MPH and MS Applicants and the standard MSW application procedure .

Career & Practical Experience

The program prepares graduates for careers focused on promoting health, preventing disease, and enhancing the delivery of social and health services. The MSW concentration in Administration and Community Development prepares students for “macro” practice roles.

Field practice is a significant component. School of Social Work internships occur during the academic year in the 2nd and 3rd years. School of Public Health internships for dual students are not required; however, students may choose to complete a volunteer summer experience if it does not interfere with required social work internship hours.